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The Havenwood #2
Saving Grace: A Sweet Second Chance, Small Town Cowboy Romance
“We’ve got this, sunshine. Let me prove it.”
Drew Flynn is no stranger to pain. A life of training horses has left his body beaten and bruised, but it’s nothing compared to the brokenness he feels after walking away from the only girl he’s ever loved.Leila Barrett left Havenwood nearly a decade ago after a near-death experience that left scars—both physical and mental. The only people to keep her pushing forward? Her big brother and Drew.
Until one October night in Tennessee changed everything.
They haven’t spoken since he walked out of their hotel room almost eleven months ago.
Now, she’s finally coming home…with a baby in tow.
Saving Grace is the second installment in the Havenwood interconnected series. You do not have to read Kissing Chaos (Book 1), but it will give you insight into some of the other characters.
This book is a no-spice romance with a secret baby trope. Check content warnings at the start of the book.
Drew Flynn is no stranger to pain. A life of training horses has left his body beaten and bruised, but it’s nothing compared to the brokenness he feels after walking away from the only girl he’s ever loved.Leila Barrett left Havenwood nearly a decade ago after a near-death experience that left scars—both physical and mental. The only people to keep her pushing forward? Her big brother and Drew.
Until one October night in Tennessee changed everything.
They haven’t spoken since he walked out of their hotel room almost eleven months ago.
Now, she’s finally coming home…with a baby in tow.
Saving Grace is the second installment in the Havenwood interconnected series. You do not have to read Kissing Chaos (Book 1), but it will give you insight into some of the other characters.
This book is a no-spice romance with a secret baby trope. Check content warnings at the start of the book.
147 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2025
19 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 24, 2025
well, I did try it to love it, and I felt like I did a little.
this story wasn't my right choice in this moment, and I didn't feel like a real connection with the character's, BUT it doesn't mean that I won't read this author again, I'll give a try with another book.
thank you Luna Literary for this ARC!
this story wasn't my right choice in this moment, and I didn't feel like a real connection with the character's, BUT it doesn't mean that I won't read this author again, I'll give a try with another book.
thank you Luna Literary for this ARC!
August 7, 2025
This is my first book that I have read by EM Chandler and I really enjoyed reading this book so much.
We meet Leila & Drew in this book. Drew Flynn is no stranger to pain. A life of training horses has left his body beaten and bruised, but it’s nothing compared to the brokenness he feels after walking away from the only girl he’s ever loved.
Leila Barrett left Havenwood nearly a decade ago after a near-death experience that left scars—both physical and mental. The only people to keep her pushing forward? Her big brother and Drew.
Leila comes back to Havenwood with her big brother and her daughter who Drew doesn’t know about. When Drew finds out that he has a daughter he tries to help Leila out as much as possible and they start to develop feelings for each other and they decide to see where things where take them especially because of them having a daughter together.
Thank you to EM Chandler & Luna Literary for allowing me to read this book as an early copy of it.
We meet Leila & Drew in this book. Drew Flynn is no stranger to pain. A life of training horses has left his body beaten and bruised, but it’s nothing compared to the brokenness he feels after walking away from the only girl he’s ever loved.
Leila Barrett left Havenwood nearly a decade ago after a near-death experience that left scars—both physical and mental. The only people to keep her pushing forward? Her big brother and Drew.
Leila comes back to Havenwood with her big brother and her daughter who Drew doesn’t know about. When Drew finds out that he has a daughter he tries to help Leila out as much as possible and they start to develop feelings for each other and they decide to see where things where take them especially because of them having a daughter together.
Thank you to EM Chandler & Luna Literary for allowing me to read this book as an early copy of it.
July 20, 2025
I had the absolute pleasure of reading this as an ARC and thank you so much!💛💛💛
This book was absolutely amazing!
The characters story was heartbreaking and heartwarming all in one!
I loved this book on such a beeper level and could relate to the FMC in so many ways. Not just her story but her as a mom the worries, fears, and the postpartum hormones we go through. EM Chandler did a fantastic job showcasing everything we experience as mothers so well!
The love and cemetery these two characters had was palpable!
The struggles these characters went through was written so delicately and showed real struggle and what that looks like.
This book was in my top 5 best reads of this year so far!
This book was a 10/10 the story was so amazing! Definitely give it a read I can’t wait to see what comes next! 💛💛💛💛
This book was absolutely amazing!
The characters story was heartbreaking and heartwarming all in one!
I loved this book on such a beeper level and could relate to the FMC in so many ways. Not just her story but her as a mom the worries, fears, and the postpartum hormones we go through. EM Chandler did a fantastic job showcasing everything we experience as mothers so well!
The love and cemetery these two characters had was palpable!
The struggles these characters went through was written so delicately and showed real struggle and what that looks like.
This book was in my top 5 best reads of this year so far!
This book was a 10/10 the story was so amazing! Definitely give it a read I can’t wait to see what comes next! 💛💛💛💛
July 19, 2025
First thank you so much for this ARC 💖 @emchandler.books @lunaliterary.management
I’m a sucker for second chance romance so this was great for me, I love it no third act breakup that’s a plus! I love that Leila is so brave and mature and despite her heartbreak she puts her baby first and is willing to give Drew a chance to be a dad for their baby, and Drew I love that he owned his mistakes and is doing everything to earn her heart back 🫠💕 I love their hea! It was an easy read very well paced and beautifully written ☺️
I’m a sucker for second chance romance so this was great for me, I love it no third act breakup that’s a plus! I love that Leila is so brave and mature and despite her heartbreak she puts her baby first and is willing to give Drew a chance to be a dad for their baby, and Drew I love that he owned his mistakes and is doing everything to earn her heart back 🫠💕 I love their hea! It was an easy read very well paced and beautifully written ☺️
July 28, 2025
This book was such a beautiful and emotional read. I felt every word, and the connection between Leila and Drew was intense in a quiet, powerful way. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the way they worked through pain and mistakes made their story feel so real. I loved how the author handled sensitive topics like anxiety, addiction, and healing with care and honesty, it’s something I highly appreciated. It was short but full of meaning, and the writing was smooth, emotional, and easy to follow. Nothing felt rushed, and even without heavy drama, it held my attention the whole time. I loved this one. Thank you so much to the author and Luna Literary PR for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
July 20, 2025
4 ⭐️
This was a easy and short read. It was written so well and it was just a good little story to read.
What I really enjoyed about this story was how well the author wrote the very difficult topics, anxiety, panic attacks and the struggles of addiction. All all of these elements were very carefully and beautifully well handled and written.
As for the characters I loved Lelia and Drew. They both had scars and demons, they both were broken but they needed each other, they healed each other and that was so special to read, especially them trying to do what’s best for their daughter.
And all of the side characters were great too.
Honestly nothing else to say except that it was a very, easy read that was enjoyable with a good story plot and great characters.
This was a easy and short read. It was written so well and it was just a good little story to read.
What I really enjoyed about this story was how well the author wrote the very difficult topics, anxiety, panic attacks and the struggles of addiction. All all of these elements were very carefully and beautifully well handled and written.
As for the characters I loved Lelia and Drew. They both had scars and demons, they both were broken but they needed each other, they healed each other and that was so special to read, especially them trying to do what’s best for their daughter.
And all of the side characters were great too.
Honestly nothing else to say except that it was a very, easy read that was enjoyable with a good story plot and great characters.
August 15, 2025
secret baby but with a slight twist. i think what i love the most about Drew Flynn is that he jumps right in, he doesn't hesitate at all when it comes to Leila or their child. he may not have been present during the pregnancy but man, once he knows he's a dad...HE IS A DAD! if you love cowboys and secret baby romances this is your next read!
thank you to @emchandler.books for the ARC!
thank you to @emchandler.books for the ARC!
July 28, 2025
Really enjoyed reading Drew and Lelia’s story. Drew has no clue that he has a daughter until Lelia and Gavin move back to Havenwood. I loved how they reconnected and how their relationship grew throughout their story as they battle their own demons. Their story was really easy to read and very relatable. I could really connect to Lelia as a mom with the lack of sleep and the breastfeeding.
And of course I enjoyed visiting with all of the characters that were in Kissing Chaos.
Highly recommend adding this to your tbr!
And of course I enjoyed visiting with all of the characters that were in Kissing Chaos.
Highly recommend adding this to your tbr!
August 30, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating System (as of 8/14/2025):
⭐: It was a struggle to read. I almost DNF
⭐⭐ : This could have been so much better.
⭐⭐⭐: Good/Average
⭐⭐⭐⭐: Great book. I will probably reread it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: I absolutely loved this book.
***********************************************************************
Triggers:
PTSD
Alcoholism
Drug Addiction
Mentions of Abuse
Anxiety
Tropes:
Brother's Best Friend
Cowboy Romance
Second Chance Romance
Childhood Sweethearts
Secret Baby
*************************************************************************
Summary:
FMC and MMC grew up together. It was always felt that they would end up together. They started a secret relationship as their brothers are best friends. On the night that they are found out the MMC deserts the FMC. She then finds out she is pregnant. She leaves numerous messages, etc. but the MMC never responds. He is dealing with some issues. The FMC decides to move back home, and this is when the MMC finds out he is the father of a seven-week-old little girl. Also, we find out that the FMC is dealing with PTSD and anxiety from a traumatic childhood event.
Review:
This is book two in the series and maybe if I had read the first book I would know about the trauma the FMC dealt with. But I found that it didn't really matter I was able to follow along and I enjoyed this book. This is the first book by this author, and I plan to read others in this series. I felt that both the FMC and MMC had dealt with trauma and helped each other to heal. They were each other's salvation. I enjoyed the side characters including the FMC's brother and the MMC's parents. Kudos to the author for writing a book not only about love but about healing.
Rating System (as of 8/14/2025):
⭐: It was a struggle to read. I almost DNF
⭐⭐ : This could have been so much better.
⭐⭐⭐: Good/Average
⭐⭐⭐⭐: Great book. I will probably reread it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: I absolutely loved this book.
***********************************************************************
Triggers:
PTSD
Alcoholism
Drug Addiction
Mentions of Abuse
Anxiety
Tropes:
Brother's Best Friend
Cowboy Romance
Second Chance Romance
Childhood Sweethearts
Secret Baby
*************************************************************************
Summary:
FMC and MMC grew up together. It was always felt that they would end up together. They started a secret relationship as their brothers are best friends. On the night that they are found out the MMC deserts the FMC. She then finds out she is pregnant. She leaves numerous messages, etc. but the MMC never responds. He is dealing with some issues. The FMC decides to move back home, and this is when the MMC finds out he is the father of a seven-week-old little girl. Also, we find out that the FMC is dealing with PTSD and anxiety from a traumatic childhood event.
Review:
This is book two in the series and maybe if I had read the first book I would know about the trauma the FMC dealt with. But I found that it didn't really matter I was able to follow along and I enjoyed this book. This is the first book by this author, and I plan to read others in this series. I felt that both the FMC and MMC had dealt with trauma and helped each other to heal. They were each other's salvation. I enjoyed the side characters including the FMC's brother and the MMC's parents. Kudos to the author for writing a book not only about love but about healing.
July 30, 2025
ARC review
⭐2.5/5
🌶️No spice
📌Check TW
This book had the potential to be great. I’m a sucker for the second chance and secret baby tropes, so I was hooked from the start.
Leila and Drew were very likable characters. Drew, in particular, was incredibly sweet and caring during Leila’s most vulnerable moments, which led to some truly tender scenes. I was fully invested in their story and eager to learn more about their pasts.
However, that depth never truly came through. While the book mentions that Leila and Drew grew up as friends, we never get to witness how their relationship shifted from friends to lovers.
There are also several references to the night they broke up, yet the details remain vague. The same goes for Leila’s traumatic past—after her father’s death, it’s briefly mentioned that her mother neglected her, but we’re left wondering why. What exactly happened? And what was it about her stepfather that triggered her panic attacks? No graphic details were necessary, but the way her past was brushed aside made it feel like an unresolved thread rather than a meaningful part of her story.
I believe the book would’ve benefited from a dual timeline or flashbacks—something to give readers insight into the characters’ backgrounds and emotional journeys.
At first, I thought maybe I was missing context by skipping the first book in the series. But since it was labeled as a standalone, I expected a complete story on its own. Sadly, I never felt like I truly got to know the characters.
Thank you to E.M. and Luna Literary for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of this book.
⭐2.5/5
🌶️No spice
📌Check TW
This book had the potential to be great. I’m a sucker for the second chance and secret baby tropes, so I was hooked from the start.
Leila and Drew were very likable characters. Drew, in particular, was incredibly sweet and caring during Leila’s most vulnerable moments, which led to some truly tender scenes. I was fully invested in their story and eager to learn more about their pasts.
However, that depth never truly came through. While the book mentions that Leila and Drew grew up as friends, we never get to witness how their relationship shifted from friends to lovers.
There are also several references to the night they broke up, yet the details remain vague. The same goes for Leila’s traumatic past—after her father’s death, it’s briefly mentioned that her mother neglected her, but we’re left wondering why. What exactly happened? And what was it about her stepfather that triggered her panic attacks? No graphic details were necessary, but the way her past was brushed aside made it feel like an unresolved thread rather than a meaningful part of her story.
I believe the book would’ve benefited from a dual timeline or flashbacks—something to give readers insight into the characters’ backgrounds and emotional journeys.
At first, I thought maybe I was missing context by skipping the first book in the series. But since it was labeled as a standalone, I expected a complete story on its own. Sadly, I never felt like I truly got to know the characters.
Thank you to E.M. and Luna Literary for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of this book.
August 3, 2025
Drew Flynn is a horse trainer in Heavenwood. He loves horses, however one emotional night, he got on the back of a horse under the influence and hurt himself and spooked the horse. After the fall, he was prescribed pain medication, which he really started to rely on. His brothers and friends stood by him as he got off the meds to better himself, but he still didn’t feel quite like himself. He misses the girl who was the love of his life, but he hasn’t heard from her in almost a year
Lelia Barrett left Havenwood after a hard childhood, but is back after 11 months. She comes back with her brother, as well as a newborn, and is ready to settle back down so her newborn can be close to her father, Drew. She is mentally and physically healing from both her daughter’s birth, as well as her past trauma, and wants Drew in her daughter’s life. However when she tried to reach out to him when she found out she was pregnant, she never received a response.
This story is so very sweet. The perfect palette cleanser between romances, as it has no spice, but the story is still something very special. The book isn’t too long either, about 150 pages so it’s the perfect evening read for anyone looking for some mental health representation in their books, as well as a happy ending for everyone involved. I can’t wait to see what happens next in Havenwood!
Thank you to E.M. Chander and Luna Literary for the ARC opportunity!
Lelia Barrett left Havenwood after a hard childhood, but is back after 11 months. She comes back with her brother, as well as a newborn, and is ready to settle back down so her newborn can be close to her father, Drew. She is mentally and physically healing from both her daughter’s birth, as well as her past trauma, and wants Drew in her daughter’s life. However when she tried to reach out to him when she found out she was pregnant, she never received a response.
This story is so very sweet. The perfect palette cleanser between romances, as it has no spice, but the story is still something very special. The book isn’t too long either, about 150 pages so it’s the perfect evening read for anyone looking for some mental health representation in their books, as well as a happy ending for everyone involved. I can’t wait to see what happens next in Havenwood!
Thank you to E.M. Chander and Luna Literary for the ARC opportunity!
August 11, 2025
🌻ARC Review🌻
Saving Grace~ by EM Chandler
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my first read by EM Chandler and I was truly impressed! Saving Grace was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Leila and Drew’s story is full of raw emotion, second chances, and healing. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their journey full of pain, mistakes, and redemption that felt incredibly real.
Leila returns to her hometown of Havenwood, bringing with her a newborn daughter... and a secret. Drew, the man she once loved, doesn’t know he’s a father. When the truth comes out, they’re forced to confront their shared past, their pain, and what’s best for their daughter.
Leila is still healing from trauma and living with anxiety and PTSD, while Drew is fighting his own battle after a tragic accident involving a horse and pain meds. Despite everything, they lean on each other, slowly rebuilding trust and love.
✨ Tropes & Themes:
Small Town
Surprise Baby
Second Chance
Dual POV
Mental Health & Addiction Representation
No-Spice (but emotional intimacy is 🔥)
This isn’t just a love story it’s about forgiveness, healing, and the quiet strength it takes to move forward. I didn’t miss the spice at all; this book had soul.
A heartfelt read I’d definitely recommend 💛
Saving Grace~ by EM Chandler
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my first read by EM Chandler and I was truly impressed! Saving Grace was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Leila and Drew’s story is full of raw emotion, second chances, and healing. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their journey full of pain, mistakes, and redemption that felt incredibly real.
Leila returns to her hometown of Havenwood, bringing with her a newborn daughter... and a secret. Drew, the man she once loved, doesn’t know he’s a father. When the truth comes out, they’re forced to confront their shared past, their pain, and what’s best for their daughter.
Leila is still healing from trauma and living with anxiety and PTSD, while Drew is fighting his own battle after a tragic accident involving a horse and pain meds. Despite everything, they lean on each other, slowly rebuilding trust and love.
✨ Tropes & Themes:
Small Town
Surprise Baby
Second Chance
Dual POV
Mental Health & Addiction Representation
No-Spice (but emotional intimacy is 🔥)
This isn’t just a love story it’s about forgiveness, healing, and the quiet strength it takes to move forward. I didn’t miss the spice at all; this book had soul.
A heartfelt read I’d definitely recommend 💛
August 14, 2025
🌻 Saving Grace 🌻
Rate : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre : Contemporary Romance
Author : E. M. Chandler
Thank you so much to Luna Literary PR for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Sweet, fast paced and a cosy little read about a single mum moving back to her home town - Saving Grace is a sweet little book full of family, friends and small town warmth.
It’s a short book and fast paced - so I didn’t feel a lot of build up within the relationship. The relationship was pretty much established when Leila returned home and saw Drew again for the first time since having their baby girl. It felt a lot more like a slice of life book than anything else.
Despite that, it’s a sweet cosy read and if you enjoy single mum, small town, second Chance romances this is the book for you!
CW/TW: Pain pill addiction/recovery (no on page use), Panic/Anxiety (on page), Secret baby (on page), Loss of parent(s) (off page), Mild discussion of gun violence and trauma related to bullet wound in FMC (incident occurred in the past, not on page), Mild discussion of infertility/adoption/fostering relating to secondary characters
Rate : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre : Contemporary Romance
Author : E. M. Chandler
Thank you so much to Luna Literary PR for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Sweet, fast paced and a cosy little read about a single mum moving back to her home town - Saving Grace is a sweet little book full of family, friends and small town warmth.
It’s a short book and fast paced - so I didn’t feel a lot of build up within the relationship. The relationship was pretty much established when Leila returned home and saw Drew again for the first time since having their baby girl. It felt a lot more like a slice of life book than anything else.
Despite that, it’s a sweet cosy read and if you enjoy single mum, small town, second Chance romances this is the book for you!
CW/TW: Pain pill addiction/recovery (no on page use), Panic/Anxiety (on page), Secret baby (on page), Loss of parent(s) (off page), Mild discussion of gun violence and trauma related to bullet wound in FMC (incident occurred in the past, not on page), Mild discussion of infertility/adoption/fostering relating to secondary characters
August 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice- None
This was my first read by this author and I loved every second of it!
I love a good second-chance romance and I can say that this one did not disappoint.
There is so much history between Leila and Drew and I thought that the past and present were weaves in throughout the novel very well.
Leila is wise beyond her years. I do not know of any 20-something who is willing to be as selfless as she is. I know this is her attempting to be a good mother, which she is. In my opinion, she did what she was supposed to do, but the fact that she was willing to put all of that aside to ensure that her child grew up knowing their father was powerful.
Drew, when we first meet him, we see him battling his addiction and past mistakes. I love that he owns these and was putting in the hard work to stay clean. I think that the author does a great job at giving us an authentic depiction of someone dealing with addiction.
The way the storyline was presented was very engaging. I really like that she weaves in the past and present the way that she does. I think it allows the plot to flow as well as it did. She slowly shows us how they got to the present and I really like when authors do this.
This book was a no-spice (although there were some hints) but this book did not need that. This was about redemption and forgiveness. I can honestly say I didn't miss the spice.
overall, I really enjoyed this novel, and would definitely recommend it.
Thank You E.M. Chandler and Luna Literary for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Spice- None
This was my first read by this author and I loved every second of it!
I love a good second-chance romance and I can say that this one did not disappoint.
There is so much history between Leila and Drew and I thought that the past and present were weaves in throughout the novel very well.
Leila is wise beyond her years. I do not know of any 20-something who is willing to be as selfless as she is. I know this is her attempting to be a good mother, which she is. In my opinion, she did what she was supposed to do, but the fact that she was willing to put all of that aside to ensure that her child grew up knowing their father was powerful.
Drew, when we first meet him, we see him battling his addiction and past mistakes. I love that he owns these and was putting in the hard work to stay clean. I think that the author does a great job at giving us an authentic depiction of someone dealing with addiction.
The way the storyline was presented was very engaging. I really like that she weaves in the past and present the way that she does. I think it allows the plot to flow as well as it did. She slowly shows us how they got to the present and I really like when authors do this.
This book was a no-spice (although there were some hints) but this book did not need that. This was about redemption and forgiveness. I can honestly say I didn't miss the spice.
overall, I really enjoyed this novel, and would definitely recommend it.
Thank You E.M. Chandler and Luna Literary for the ARC in return for an honest review.
August 13, 2025
Saving Grace
by @emchandler.books
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
This was my first time reading EM Chandler and this book did not disappoint.
Both Leila and Drew’s story was so heartbreaking but also inspiring. I love a great second chance romance and this one was perfect. The love between these two characters was so deep in an intense, patient and reliable way where it’s just home. EM Chandler did a great job showcasing Leila’s struggle with her worries and fears as a mom and her journey dealing with the postpartum hormone rollercoaster.
The way these two worked through their heartache and mistakes was so rewarding to watch unfold. They chose to heal and do it with patience and complete honesty. Watching Drew fight to show her he was in was beautiful.
This book was a pleasure to read and I cannot wait for more from this author. Thank you @emchandler.books and @lunaliterary.management I absolutely loved this read!
by @emchandler.books
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
This was my first time reading EM Chandler and this book did not disappoint.
Both Leila and Drew’s story was so heartbreaking but also inspiring. I love a great second chance romance and this one was perfect. The love between these two characters was so deep in an intense, patient and reliable way where it’s just home. EM Chandler did a great job showcasing Leila’s struggle with her worries and fears as a mom and her journey dealing with the postpartum hormone rollercoaster.
The way these two worked through their heartache and mistakes was so rewarding to watch unfold. They chose to heal and do it with patience and complete honesty. Watching Drew fight to show her he was in was beautiful.
This book was a pleasure to read and I cannot wait for more from this author. Thank you @emchandler.books and @lunaliterary.management I absolutely loved this read!
August 15, 2025
Drew & Leila’s story is a quick read, but it packs an emotional punch. Second chance AND secret baby? I’m in every time!
Stars: 4/5
Spice: 0/5 (Closed Door)
Leila moves back to town with her infant daughter, after she hasn’t seen Drew in eleven months. And he doesn’t know he has a daughter.
Drew is all in from the beginning, even if Leila isn’t, and I loved that. He steps up to be there for Leila and Kaia as soon as he finds out about his daughter – and I’ll melt for that every time. I really loved the mental health rep in this story. For closed door readers, this book is closed door, although I would say it’s on the steamier side of closed door. This is a novella, so it was a quick read. And if nothing else, I just wanted more of their story. But overall, I had a great time with this one!
CW: Addiction/recovery, panic/anxiety, secret baby, loss of parents
I received an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
Stars: 4/5
Spice: 0/5 (Closed Door)
Leila moves back to town with her infant daughter, after she hasn’t seen Drew in eleven months. And he doesn’t know he has a daughter.
Drew is all in from the beginning, even if Leila isn’t, and I loved that. He steps up to be there for Leila and Kaia as soon as he finds out about his daughter – and I’ll melt for that every time. I really loved the mental health rep in this story. For closed door readers, this book is closed door, although I would say it’s on the steamier side of closed door. This is a novella, so it was a quick read. And if nothing else, I just wanted more of their story. But overall, I had a great time with this one!
CW: Addiction/recovery, panic/anxiety, secret baby, loss of parents
I received an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
August 3, 2025
Thank you to Luna Literary for an ARC of Saving Grace.
Saving Grace is about Lelia who is returning to her hometown after ten years with her newborn daughter with her. The baby's father - Drew - is a cowboy that she is known since childhood, the two of them hooked up the year prior and things between them fell apart that same night.
This might be a little toxic of me, but I love the secret baby trope. I just love a man having no clue he has a kid and then getting to watch him become instantly smitten with his kid is just so fun every time. I also like the way the parents try and skirt around each other because they want what is best with for their kid despite both wanting each other. I like the fuck its moment where they decide that they can be together and co-parent. This book hits every mark perfectly for the trope.
The actual background for Lelia and Drew felt a little muddy. This book is part of an interconnected series, but Goodreads does say that reading the first one just gives you insight on the characters. We don't ever get to know much about the night Drew and Lelia hooked up. We don't get to see their relationship when they were growing up. We are just told that they hooked up and that his family was her safe space after her father passed away. I think this book would have benefitted so much from having flashback chapters - letting us read what happened between them would have had be rooting for the two of them even more.
Saving Grace is about Lelia who is returning to her hometown after ten years with her newborn daughter with her. The baby's father - Drew - is a cowboy that she is known since childhood, the two of them hooked up the year prior and things between them fell apart that same night.
This might be a little toxic of me, but I love the secret baby trope. I just love a man having no clue he has a kid and then getting to watch him become instantly smitten with his kid is just so fun every time. I also like the way the parents try and skirt around each other because they want what is best with for their kid despite both wanting each other. I like the fuck its moment where they decide that they can be together and co-parent. This book hits every mark perfectly for the trope.
The actual background for Lelia and Drew felt a little muddy. This book is part of an interconnected series, but Goodreads does say that reading the first one just gives you insight on the characters. We don't ever get to know much about the night Drew and Lelia hooked up. We don't get to see their relationship when they were growing up. We are just told that they hooked up and that his family was her safe space after her father passed away. I think this book would have benefitted so much from having flashback chapters - letting us read what happened between them would have had be rooting for the two of them even more.
July 28, 2025
This was such a heartfelt second chance romance, packed into a short, emotionally rich read. Leila and Drew’s story is full of quiet intensity. Just two people who’ve been through their share of trauma, reconnecting in the most vulnerable way after nearly a year apart.
EM Chandler’s books always seem to have real people at the center, flawed, tender, and trying their best. You can feel all the hard edges and emotions as they work through anxiety, fear, and forgiveness. Their chemistry was steady and sincere, with a softness that fit the tone of the story perfectly. If you're looking for a no-spice, high-feels story about healing and finding your way back to the person who always felt like home, this is a great one to pick up. A quick, meaningful read that left me with a full heart.
Thank you to the author and Luna Literary Management for this advance copy
EM Chandler’s books always seem to have real people at the center, flawed, tender, and trying their best. You can feel all the hard edges and emotions as they work through anxiety, fear, and forgiveness. Their chemistry was steady and sincere, with a softness that fit the tone of the story perfectly. If you're looking for a no-spice, high-feels story about healing and finding your way back to the person who always felt like home, this is a great one to pick up. A quick, meaningful read that left me with a full heart.
Thank you to the author and Luna Literary Management for this advance copy
August 2, 2025
🐎 !! arc review !! 🐎
this was so so good!
I finished this so fast.
the characters were everything,
It was written so beautifully and so emotional
I felt everything with them and could really cry with them so many times.
Drew and Leila are the cutest.
How they work through everything and help each other in every way they can.
I loved it.
the secret baby trope was what brought be to this book in the first place - i‘m a sucker for it - and it was done so amazingly.
the tension between them and just how deeply the care and love each other is something I so badly want.
truly I loved the mental health representation to much. it was done so so well, and I felt so seen
the found family and overall the family’s in this book were the best.
so supportive and understanding, how could you not cry?
i‘m am so greatful to have gotten an arc!
this will not be my last book by this author!
this was so so good!
I finished this so fast.
the characters were everything,
It was written so beautifully and so emotional
I felt everything with them and could really cry with them so many times.
Drew and Leila are the cutest.
How they work through everything and help each other in every way they can.
I loved it.
the secret baby trope was what brought be to this book in the first place - i‘m a sucker for it - and it was done so amazingly.
the tension between them and just how deeply the care and love each other is something I so badly want.
truly I loved the mental health representation to much. it was done so so well, and I felt so seen
the found family and overall the family’s in this book were the best.
so supportive and understanding, how could you not cry?
i‘m am so greatful to have gotten an arc!
this will not be my last book by this author!
July 28, 2025
“Never knew I could fall in love at first sight twice. But what do you know? You and your mama have that in common. Two perfect girls stuck with a not-so-perfect me. But I’ll do my best for you. For both of you. I swear it.”
What a sweet amazing short romance book this was 💝🥰
This is a second chance, surprise baby for Drew and Leila. Leila moves home to the only place she knows she needs to go but has some severe trauma from. The love of her life lives there and is about to find out some life changing news. Months sober from addiction he’s on the verge of relapse but Leila saves him from himself and he saves her from herself! This story is short. It’s full of heartbreak and mental health issues that are very well represented! The HEA is so sweet and heartfelt 🖤
What a sweet amazing short romance book this was 💝🥰
This is a second chance, surprise baby for Drew and Leila. Leila moves home to the only place she knows she needs to go but has some severe trauma from. The love of her life lives there and is about to find out some life changing news. Months sober from addiction he’s on the verge of relapse but Leila saves him from himself and he saves her from herself! This story is short. It’s full of heartbreak and mental health issues that are very well represented! The HEA is so sweet and heartfelt 🖤
July 30, 2025
The author's adept management of the story's very difficult themes—anxiety, panic attacks, and the struggles of addiction—was what I appreciated the most. All of these elements were managed and crafted with exceptional attention and elegance.
Concerning the characters, Drew and Lelia were my top choices. Both were injured and carried scars and inner demons, yet they required each other and helped each other heal, which was truly moving to read about, particularly their efforts to prioritize their daughter's well-being.
The supporting cast was also truly outstanding.
I genuinely have no other comments except that it was a truly enjoyable book with a strong premise and fantastic characters.
Concerning the characters, Drew and Lelia were my top choices. Both were injured and carried scars and inner demons, yet they required each other and helped each other heal, which was truly moving to read about, particularly their efforts to prioritize their daughter's well-being.
The supporting cast was also truly outstanding.
I genuinely have no other comments except that it was a truly enjoyable book with a strong premise and fantastic characters.
August 3, 2025
ARC Review: Thank you to EM Chandler and Luna Literary Management for sending me a copy to read and review.
This was a very well-written second-chance romance. I loved how Drew didn’t hesitate to jump into dad mode as soon as he found out he had a daughter. He was so in tune with Lelia and her mental health needs. I felt like the subject of Drew’s struggle with pain pills and his recovery was so well written.
Lelia’s mental health struggles with anxiety and PTSD were very well written. I really liked her character. I liked all the characters in this novella.
There were a lot of allusions to Lelia and Drew’s childhood, the trauma she experienced, their relationship, and what led to their separation. I felt like those subjects weren’t delved into enough, so there really wasn’t much resolution on that front. I still enjoyed the book.
This was a very well-written second-chance romance. I loved how Drew didn’t hesitate to jump into dad mode as soon as he found out he had a daughter. He was so in tune with Lelia and her mental health needs. I felt like the subject of Drew’s struggle with pain pills and his recovery was so well written.
Lelia’s mental health struggles with anxiety and PTSD were very well written. I really liked her character. I liked all the characters in this novella.
There were a lot of allusions to Lelia and Drew’s childhood, the trauma she experienced, their relationship, and what led to their separation. I felt like those subjects weren’t delved into enough, so there really wasn’t much resolution on that front. I still enjoyed the book.
August 13, 2025
I was not ready for the feelings here. Not even a little bit.
While this is short, it's going to rip your heart out, break it into pieces, and then put it back together again. As always, with shorter books, I never like to give too much away, but just know that Leila and Drew are so, so sweet. Their story is about intimacy, not of the spice variety - it's not needed here - and redemption.
It's so deep and heartfelt you'll feel it in your bones. You'll be left wanting more.
💛 Second Chance Romance
💛 Previously "Secret" Romance
💛 Secret Baby
💛 Colt Breaker Cowboy
💛 Small Town Romance
💛 Injury/Recovery
💛 Found Family
💛 Panic/Anxiety Rep
Thank you to the author and Luna Literary Management for the gifted copy!
While this is short, it's going to rip your heart out, break it into pieces, and then put it back together again. As always, with shorter books, I never like to give too much away, but just know that Leila and Drew are so, so sweet. Their story is about intimacy, not of the spice variety - it's not needed here - and redemption.
It's so deep and heartfelt you'll feel it in your bones. You'll be left wanting more.
💛 Second Chance Romance
💛 Previously "Secret" Romance
💛 Secret Baby
💛 Colt Breaker Cowboy
💛 Small Town Romance
💛 Injury/Recovery
💛 Found Family
💛 Panic/Anxiety Rep
Thank you to the author and Luna Literary Management for the gifted copy!
July 24, 2025
2.5⭐ (Round Up)
📖 This second chance, surprise baby, and going home to the place you left behind, is also a story of trauma, grief and recovery.
💭 Saving Grace is a short novel (almost novella). The story that is here is good, and there are some solid moments between the MCs and within the family group. For me, there was a bit too much happening. It didn’t feel like there was time for things to really land. The heavy topics of addiction, and mental health are handled carefully. I particularly enjoyed how even after time apart, Drew remembers how to help Leila through her panic attacks and shows up for her.
If a shorter novel with lots of different pieces that moves quickly sounds up your alley, this might be for you.
📖 This second chance, surprise baby, and going home to the place you left behind, is also a story of trauma, grief and recovery.
💭 Saving Grace is a short novel (almost novella). The story that is here is good, and there are some solid moments between the MCs and within the family group. For me, there was a bit too much happening. It didn’t feel like there was time for things to really land. The heavy topics of addiction, and mental health are handled carefully. I particularly enjoyed how even after time apart, Drew remembers how to help Leila through her panic attacks and shows up for her.
If a shorter novel with lots of different pieces that moves quickly sounds up your alley, this might be for you.
August 17, 2025
Wow what a book! Top 5 read of the year for me.
The story of Leila and Drew was both Heartbreaking and Heartwarming The struggles each of these characters go through individually and together was written so delicately and eloquently.
It was beautiful to watch how Leila allowed Drew in their child’s life, despite what happened between them. In addition, Drew being whatever he needed to be for her in her timeframe. He didn’t push her despite what was his ultimate endgame.
We can’t forget to mention Leila’s ultimate big brother. No questions asked…..just supported her.
Many thanks to Luna Literacy and E.M. Chandler for an ARC opportunity.
The story of Leila and Drew was both Heartbreaking and Heartwarming The struggles each of these characters go through individually and together was written so delicately and eloquently.
It was beautiful to watch how Leila allowed Drew in their child’s life, despite what happened between them. In addition, Drew being whatever he needed to be for her in her timeframe. He didn’t push her despite what was his ultimate endgame.
We can’t forget to mention Leila’s ultimate big brother. No questions asked…..just supported her.
Many thanks to Luna Literacy and E.M. Chandler for an ARC opportunity.
August 4, 2025
This second-chance small-town cowboy romance broke my heart in all the right ways.
Grace returns home after nearly losing everything, and reconnects with her childhood love, Drew, whose devotion has never wavered.
Themes like trauma, healing, and secret-parenthood are handled with care and tenderness. As an ARC reader, I felt so invested in their journey from brokenness to whole. A beautifully rugged love story with emotional grit and genuine redemption.
I'll be eagerly waiting for the next book!
Grace returns home after nearly losing everything, and reconnects with her childhood love, Drew, whose devotion has never wavered.
Themes like trauma, healing, and secret-parenthood are handled with care and tenderness. As an ARC reader, I felt so invested in their journey from brokenness to whole. A beautifully rugged love story with emotional grit and genuine redemption.
I'll be eagerly waiting for the next book!
August 15, 2025
ARC - 4 🌟 2 🌶️
💛 Second chance
🌻 Previously "secret" romance
💛 Secret baby
🌻 Colt breaker cowboy
💛 Small town romance
🌻 Injury/recovery
💛 Found family
🌻 Panic/anxiety rep
Okay, so Saving Grace is basically Hallmark meets cowboy boots… but with more feelings and less bad acting.. A cozy, second-chance romance with all the small-town vibes and just enough cowboy energy to make you picture a porch swing.
We’ve got Leila, who left Havenwood years ago after some serious trauma, and Drew, her old friend (and let’s be real, obvious soulmate) who’s been low-key pining ever since. Fast-forward, she comes back, eleven months after their one night together… with a baby. Cue the drama, the feelings, and the kind of slow-burn romance that makes you want to yell “JUST KISS ALREADY” at the page.
The best part? It’s sweet without being cheesy. The “sunshine” nickname between them? Adorable. There’s actually some thoughtful stuff about mental health and neurodivergence that makes the story feel deeper than your standard small-town love story. Is it predictable? Yeah. Did I care? Not even a little. This is comfort-read territory. It’s warm, soft, and gives you all the feels without breaking your heart in the process.
If you want a romance that feels like hot cocoa in book form, grab it. Thank you Luna and E.M for this arc opportunity 💛
💛 Second chance
🌻 Previously "secret" romance
💛 Secret baby
🌻 Colt breaker cowboy
💛 Small town romance
🌻 Injury/recovery
💛 Found family
🌻 Panic/anxiety rep
Okay, so Saving Grace is basically Hallmark meets cowboy boots… but with more feelings and less bad acting.. A cozy, second-chance romance with all the small-town vibes and just enough cowboy energy to make you picture a porch swing.
We’ve got Leila, who left Havenwood years ago after some serious trauma, and Drew, her old friend (and let’s be real, obvious soulmate) who’s been low-key pining ever since. Fast-forward, she comes back, eleven months after their one night together… with a baby. Cue the drama, the feelings, and the kind of slow-burn romance that makes you want to yell “JUST KISS ALREADY” at the page.
The best part? It’s sweet without being cheesy. The “sunshine” nickname between them? Adorable. There’s actually some thoughtful stuff about mental health and neurodivergence that makes the story feel deeper than your standard small-town love story. Is it predictable? Yeah. Did I care? Not even a little. This is comfort-read territory. It’s warm, soft, and gives you all the feels without breaking your heart in the process.
If you want a romance that feels like hot cocoa in book form, grab it. Thank you Luna and E.M for this arc opportunity 💛
August 9, 2025
I loved this book. It was a sweet easy read. There was a lot keeping Drew and Leila apart. A misunderstanding, long distance, drug abuse and panic and anxiety. But what did bring them together was Kaia, a surprise bundle of joy that caused Leila to move back to,her hometown. The author handles the addiction and anxiety issues gently while making them an important part of the book. I loved reading about the path these two took. I would like to thank EM Chandler for providing me with and advanced reader copy.
August 10, 2025
ARC Review
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy: 🚫 (No Spice)
-Dual POV
-Small Town
-Surprise Baby
-Panic and Anxiety Attack (FMC)
-Addiction (MMC)
Can be read as a stand alone.
This was my first book of the series! It’s a short book can almost seem like it’s a novella. It’s so fast paced, I feel like I missed some back story for certain moments but maybe that’s on me because I didn’t read the first book.
I loved both characters and how they both knew each other’s struggles. They both knew how to help each other.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy: 🚫 (No Spice)
-Dual POV
-Small Town
-Surprise Baby
-Panic and Anxiety Attack (FMC)
-Addiction (MMC)
Can be read as a stand alone.
This was my first book of the series! It’s a short book can almost seem like it’s a novella. It’s so fast paced, I feel like I missed some back story for certain moments but maybe that’s on me because I didn’t read the first book.
I loved both characters and how they both knew each other’s struggles. They both knew how to help each other.
October 1, 2025
-Second Chance Romance
-One Night
-Secret Baby
-Small Town
-Mental Health Rep
-Cowboy
This sweet and short romance is emotional and features characters who have known each other for years and have been through a lot individually, but never crossed the line until they did.
There's growth, romance, their sweet daughter, miscommunications, and more. I just wish there had been more about their past together and that night.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
-One Night
-Secret Baby
-Small Town
-Mental Health Rep
-Cowboy
This sweet and short romance is emotional and features characters who have known each other for years and have been through a lot individually, but never crossed the line until they did.
There's growth, romance, their sweet daughter, miscommunications, and more. I just wish there had been more about their past together and that night.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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